Multiple-sample microfluidic chip for DNA analysis

ABSTRACT

Aspects of the disclosure provide a microfluidic chip. The microfluidic chip includes a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, and a second domain for electrophoretic separation. The first domain includes at least a first reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a first sample, and a second reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a second sample. The second domain includes at least a first separation unit coupled to the first reaction reservoir to received first amplified DNA fragments based on the first sample, and a second separation unit coupled to the second reaction reservoir to received second amplified DNA fragments based on the second sample. The first separation unit is configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the first amplified DNA fragments, and the second separation unit is configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the second amplified DNA fragments.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/659,251 filed Mar. 2, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Applications No. 61/213,405, “Fast Sample to Answer DNA Analyzer (Analytical Microdevice)” filed on Jun. 4, 2009, No. 61/213,406, “Optical Approach for Microfluidic DNA Electrophoresis Detection” filed on Jun. 4, 2009, and No. 61/213,404, “Multiple Sample, Integrated Microfluidic Chip for DNA Analysis” filed on Jun. 4, 2009, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

DNA is recognized as the “ultimate biometric” for human identification. DNA analysis can provide evidence for solving forensic and medical cases, such as in areas of criminal justice, identifications of human remains, paternity testing, pathogen detection, disease detection, and the like.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the disclosure can provide a microfluidic chip. The microfluidic chip includes a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, and a second domain for electrophoretic separation. The first domain includes at least a first reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a first sample, and a second reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a second sample. The second domain includes at least a first separation unit coupled to the first reaction reservoir to received first amplified DNA fragments based on the first sample, and a second separation unit coupled to the second reaction reservoir to received second amplified DNA fragments based on the second sample. The first separation unit is configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the first amplified DNA fragments, and the second separation unit is configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the second amplified DNA fragments. It is noted that the microfluidic chip can include other domains, such as purification domain, post-PCR domain, and the like, configured for multiple samples.

Further, the microfluidic chip includes first inlets configured to input a first template DNA extracted from the first sample and first reagents for PCR amplification into the first reaction reservoir, and second inlets configured to input a second template DNA extracted from the second sample and second reagents for PCR amplification into the second reaction reservoir.

In an embodiment, the first separation unit includes a first separation channel configured to separate the first amplified DNA fragments by electrophoretic separation, and a first injection channel configured to inject the first amplified DNA fragments into the first separation channel by electro-kinetic injection. Similarly, the second separation unit includes a second separation channel configured to separate the second amplified DNA fragments by electrophoretic separation, and a second injection channel configured to inject the second amplified DNA fragments into the second separation channel by electro-kinetic injection.

Further, the first separation unit includes first electrode reservoirs configured to apply electric fields for the electro-kinetic injection and the electrophoretic separation in the first separation unit. Similarly, the second separation unit includes second electrode reservoirs configured to apply electric fields for the electro-kinetic injection and the electrophoretic separation. The first separation unit and the second separation unit can share at least one electrode reservoir.

In an embodiment, the first domain includes a thermal coupler reservoir configured for measuring a temperature within the first domain.

Further, the microfluidic chip includes a dilution domain. The dilution domain dilutes PCR mixtures received from the first domain and prepares the PCR mixtures for electrophoretic separations in the second domain. In an example, the dilution domain includes a first dilution reservoir designated for diluting a first PCR mixture received from the first reaction reservoir, and a second dilution reservoir designated for diluting a second PCR mixture received from the second reaction reservoir. The first dilution reservoir dilutes the first PCR mixture with a first dilutant according to a first ratio from 1:5 to 1:20, and the second dilution reservoir dilutes the second PCR mixture with a second dilutant according to a second ratio from 1:5 to 1:20.

Aspects of the disclosure can provide a cartridge. The cartridge includes a sample acceptor and the microfluidic chip coupled together. The sample acceptor is configured to respectively extract a first template DNA from a first sample and a second template DNA from a second sample. The sample acceptor is configured to extract the first template DNA or the second template DNA by at least one of a solid phase extraction, and a liquid phase enzymatic DNA isolation. In an embodiment, the sample acceptor includes a first well having a first liquid phase mixture to extract the first template DNA from the first sample and a second well having a second liquid phase mixture to extract the second template DNA from the second sample.

Further, the cartridge includes a reagent carrier configured to carry reagents for the PCR amplification, and solutions for the electrophoretic separation.

Aspects of the disclosure can provide a method for multiple-sample DNA analysis. The method includes inducing thermal cycles in a first domain of a microfluidic chip for PCR amplification of DNA fragments. The first domain includes at least a first reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a first sample, and a second reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a second sample. Further, the method includes inducing liquid flow to respectively move first amplified DNA fragments from the first reaction reservoir to a first separation unit in a second domain of the microfluidic chip, and second amplified DNA fragments from the second reaction reservoir to a second separation unit in the second domain of the microfluidic chip. Then, the method includes inducing electric fields in the first separation unit to separate the first amplified DNA fragments by size, and inducing electric fields in the second separation unit to separate the second amplified DNA fragments by size. Further, the method includes detecting the separated DNA fragments.

The method can also include extracting a first template DNA from the first sample, and extracting a second template DNA from the second sample. In an embodiment, the method includes maintaining a temperature to enable liquid phase enzymatic DNA isolation for extracting at least one of the first template DNA and the second template DNA. Further, the method includes injecting first reagents and the first template DNA into the first reaction reservoir, and injecting second reagents and the second template DNA into the second reaction reservoir.

To detect the separated DNA fragments, the method can include emitting a laser beam, splitting the laser beam into a first laser beam and a second laser beam, directing the first laser beam to a first separation channel of the first separation unit to excite a first fluorescence from first fluorescent labels attached to the first amplified DNA fragments and directing the second laser beam to a second separation channel of the second separation unit to excite a second fluorescence from second fluorescent labels attached to the second amplified DNA fragments. Then, the method includes detecting the first fluorescence and the second fluorescence.

To detect the first fluorescence and the second fluorescence, the method can include detecting the first fluorescence by a first detector, and detecting the second fluorescence by a second detector. Alternatively, the method includes multiplexing the first fluorescence and the second fluorescence, and detecting the multiplexed fluorescence by a detector.

In an embodiment, the microfluidic chip includes a dilution domain. The dilution domain includes a first dilution reservoir and a second dilution reservoir. Then, the method includes inducing liquid flow to move a first PCR mixture having the first amplified DNA fragments from the first reaction reservoir to a first dilution reservoir, diluting the first PCR mixture with a first dilutant, inducing liquid flow to move a second PCR mixture having the second amplified DNA fragments from the second reaction reservoir to a second dilution reservoir, and diluting the second PCR mixture with a second dilutant.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the following figures, wherein like numerals reference like elements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary DNA analyzer according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIGS. 2A-2C show a swab example and elevation views of a sample cartridge example according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a microfluidic chip example according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary DNA analyzer according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a multiple-sample microfluidic chip example according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of a detection module example for multiple-sample DNA analysis according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 7 shows a flow chart outlining an exemplary process for using a DNA analyzer to perform multiple-sample DNA analysis according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

FIG. 8 shows a flow chart outlining an exemplary process for a DNA analyzer to perform multiple-sample DNA analysis according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary DNA analyzer 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The DNA analyzer 100 includes a microfluidic chip module 110, a thermal module 120, a pressure module 130, a high voltage module 140, a detection module 150, a power module 160, a computing module 170, and a controller module 180. Additionally, the DNA analyzer 100 can include a magnetic module 190. These elements can be coupled together as shown in FIG. 1.

The DNA analyzer 100 is capable of processing sample-to-answer DNA analysis on an integrated single-chip. Thus, using the DNA analyzer 100 to perform DNA analysis does not need substantial experience and knowledge of DNA processes. In an example, the appropriate procedures to use the DNA analyzer 100 to perform DNA analysis can be learned in an hour. Additionally, the integrated single-chip DNA analysis requires a reduced volume of reagents, for example, in the order of a micro-liter. Further, the reduced volume of reagents can reduce thermal inputs for inducing thermal cycles in the DNA analysis, and this reduce the time for DNA analysis.

The microfluidic chip module 110 includes a microfluidic chip 111. The microfluidic chip 111 can be suitably coupled with other elements of the DNA analyzer 100 to perform integrated single-chip DNA analysis. In an example, the microfluidic chip module 110 is implemented as a disposable cartridge, and a cartridge interface that can couple the disposable cartridge with other components of the DNA analyzer 100 that are not included as part of the disposable cartridge. The disposable cartridge includes the microfluidic chip 111 and a micro-to-macro interface. The micro-to-macro interface couples the microfluidic chip 111 to macro structures on the disposable cartridge. The disposable cartridge can be separately stored, and can be installed in the DNA analyzer 100 at a time of DNA analysis. After the DNA analysis, the disposable cartridge can be suitably thrown away.

The microfluidic chip 111 includes various domains that can be suitably configured to enable the integrated single-chip DNA analysis. In an embodiment, DNA analysis generally includes a step of PCR amplification, and a step of electrophoretic separation. The microfluidic chip 111 can include a first domain 111 a for the PCR amplification and a second domain 111 b for the electrophoretic separation. In addition, the microfluidic chip 111 can include other domains that are suitably integrated with the first domain 111 a and the second domain 111 b. In an example, the microfluidic chip 111 includes a purification domain fluidically coupled with the first domain 111 a. The purification domain can be used to extract and purify a template DNA. It is noted that any suitable techniques, such as solid-phase extraction, liquid-phase extraction, and the like, can be used to purify the template DNA in the purification domain.

In another example, the microfluidic chip 111 includes a post-PCR clean-up/dilution domain that is fluidically coupled with the first domain 111 a and the second domain 111 b. The post-PCR clean-up/dilution domain can be used for any suitable process after the PCR amplification and before the electrophoretic separation.

The first domain 111 a includes a reservoir configured for PCR amplification. In an embodiment, the first domain 111 a includes multiple separated reservoirs to enable simultaneous PCR amplification for multiple DNA samples. The temperature at the first domain 111 a can be controlled by the thermal module 120 to enable the PCR amplification. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the PCR amplification on the microfluidic chip 111 requires only a small volume of reagents, and the PCR amplification can achieve rapid thermal cycling. In an example, the volume of reagents used for the PCR amplification can be in the order of sub-micro-liter, and the time required for the PCR amplification can be under 20 minutes.

The second domain 111 b can include a plurality of micro channels. The plurality of micro channels can be configured for electrophoretic separation. More specifically, each micro channel can be filled with, for example, polymer sieving matrix. Further, an electric field can be induced in the micro channel. Thus, when DNA fragments are injected in the micro channel, the DNA fragments can migrate by force of the electric field at different speeds based on the sizes of the DNA fragments.

Additionally, the second domain 111 b can be configured to facilitate DNA fragments detection in the DNA analysis. In an example, DNA fragments are tagged with fluorescent labels during PCR, before being injected in the micro channels. The fluorescent labels can emit fluorescence of pre-known wavelength when excited by a laser beam. The second domain 111 b includes a detection window configured for detection. The laser beam can be directed to pass through the detection window to excite the fluorescent labels in the micro channels. The emitted fluorescence can pass through the detection window to be collected and detected.

The microfluidic chip 111 can include additional structures to facilitate the integrated single-chip DNA analysis. For example, the microfluidic chip 111 can include microfluidic channels that can direct DNA fragments from the first domain 111 a to the second domain 111 b. Through the microfluidic channels, the DNA fragments flow in a solution from the first domain 111 a to the second domain 111 b. In addition, the microfluidic chip 111 can include inlets for receiving reagents and the template DNA. The microfluidic chip 111 can also include additional reservoirs for additional processing steps, such as dilution, cleanup, and the like.

The microfluidic chip 111 can be constructed from any suitable material. In an example, the microfluidic chip 111 is constructed from glass. In another example, the microfluidic chip 111 is constructed from plastic or polymeric material.

In addition to the microfluidic chip 111, the disposable cartridge can include a sample acceptor and a reagent carrier. In an example, the sample acceptor accepts a swab used for taking DNA sample, such as from saliva, bloodstains, cigarettes, and the like. Further, the sample acceptor extracts a template DNA from the swab. The sample acceptor can use any suitable mechanism, such as solid-phase extraction, liquid-phase extraction, and the like to obtain and/or purify the template DNA from the swab. In an embodiment, the sample acceptor uses a solid-phase DNA extraction method, such as silica beads based DNA extraction.

In another embodiment, the sample acceptor uses a liquid-phase DNA extraction method. The liquid-phase DNA extraction method can simplify the purification and extraction process, and reduce a total cost of the DNA analyzer 100. In an example, the sample acceptor uses an enzymatic DNA-isolation method to extract and purify the template DNA. The enzymatic DNA-isolation method can achieve liquid phase purification without a need of centrifugation. In addition, the sample acceptor can be suitably designed to maintain sample integrity.

More specifically, the sample acceptor can include a plurality of separated wells for taking swabs, for example. Thus, the DNA analysis can simultaneously process multiple DNA samples. Each well includes a liquid phase mixture that is sealed by a membrane at a bottom portion of the well. The liquid phase mixture can conduct enzymatic digestion of all proteins and other cellular interferences, with the exception of DNA. For example, the liquid phase mixture can include thermostable proteinases from thermophilic Bacillus species, such as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0197788, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Thus, the liquid phase mixture can perform DNA extraction and purification when a swab is immersed in the liquid phase mixture. The liquid phase method can achieve comparable DNA quality to other methodologies in both DNA concentration and purity. In an example, a final DNA concentration by the liquid phase method is in a range of 0.5-2 ng/μL.

Further, using the liquid phase extraction method instead of the silica solid phase method can reduce the overall hydraulic pressure requirement to induce solution flow through the microfluidic chip 111. In an embodiment, the liquid phase extraction can enable a valveless design for the microfluidic chip 111. Thus, the liquid phase extraction can simplify the DNA analyzer 100 and simplify the manufacturing and testing steps in association with the solid-phase extraction.

Before taking DNA sample, a swab can be sealed in a hard case to avoid contamination. The swab can be attached to a seal cap that can seal the hard case. The swab can be identified by various mechanisms. In an example, a barcode label is attached to the hard case to identify the swab. In another example, the seal cap has a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag implanted. The RFID tag can identify the swab attached to the seal cap throughout the process. After the swab is used to take DNA sample, the swab can be placed in one of the plurality of separated wells, and can be sealed in the well, for example, by the seal cap attached to the sampled swab. In an embodiment, the seal cap is a stepped seal cap that can seal the well in a first step, and a second step. When the seal cap seals the well in the first step, the swab does not puncture the membrane. When the seal cap seals the well in the second step, the swab punctures the membrane and is immersed in the liquid phase mixture. The liquid phase mixture can then extract template DNA from the swab.

The reagent carrier can house a plurality of reagents for DNA analysis, such as reagents for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, solutions for electrophoretic separation, and the like. In an STR typing example, the reagent carrier houses reagents for multiplexed STR amplification. The reagents can perform multiplexed STR amplification and can use multiple fluorescent dyes to label STR alleles. The reagents can be commercially available reagent kits or can be tailored to the micro-scale chip environment to further facilitate the integrated single-chip DNA analysis.

In addition, the reagent carrier houses solutions that are suitable for electrophoretic separation in the micro-scale chip environment. For example, the reagent carrier houses a coating solution, such as poly-N-hydroxyethylacrylamide, and the like. The coating solution can be used to coat micro channel walls prior to the separation to reduce electro osmotic flow and enable single base pair resolution of amplified DNA fragments. In another example, the reagent carrier houses a dilution solution, such as water and/or Formamide, and the like. The dilution solution can be used to reduce the ionic strength of the sample in order to promote better electro-kinetic injection. In another example, the reagent carrier houses an internal lane standard (ILS). The ILS can be used for accurate size measurements. The reagent carrier also houses a polymer solution for electrophoretic separation in the micro-scale chip environment. The polymer solution is used as gels to provide a physical separation of DNA fragments according to chain length. For example, the polymer solution can include a sieving or non-sieving matrix, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,531,073, U.S. Pat. No. 7,399,396, U.S. Pat. No. 7,371,533, U.S. Pat. No. 7,026,414, U.S. Pat. No. 6,811,977 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,455,682, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In an example, a polymer sieving matrix can be used to yield a single-base resolution in a total separation length of 8 cm and in less than 400 seconds.

The thermal module 120 receives control signals from the controller module 180, and induces suitable temperatures for DNA analysis, such as a temperature for DNA extraction, thermal cycles for the PCR amplification, a temperature for electrophoretic separation, and the like. In an example, the thermal module 120 includes a resistance heater to control a temperature in the wells of the sample acceptor for the DNA extraction and purification. In another example, the thermal module 120 includes another resistance heater to control a temperature at the second domain 111 b.

In another example, the thermal module 120 includes a heating unit, a cooling unit and a sensing unit to induce the thermal cycles for the PCR amplification at the first domain 111 a. The heating unit can direct heat to the first domain 111 a, the cooling unit can disperse heat from the first domain 111 a, and the sensing unit can measure a temperature at the first domain 111 a. The controller module 180 can control the heating unit and the cooling unit based on the temperature measured by the sensing unit.

In an embodiment, the thermal module 120 performs non-contact thermal controls. For example, the thermal module 120 includes an infrared light source as the heating unit, a cooling fan as the cooling unit, and an infrared pyrometer as the temperature sensing unit. The infrared light source, such as a halogen light bulb, can excite, for example, the 1.3 μm vibrational band of liquid. Thus, the infrared light source can heat a small volume of solution within a reservoir in the first domain 111 a independent of the reservoir to achieve rapid heating and cooling. The infrared pyrometer measures blackbody radiation from an outside of the reservoir. In an example, the reservoir is designed to have a thinner side for the infrared pyrometer measurements. The infrared pyrometer measurements at the thinner side can more accurately reflect the temperature of solution within the reservoir. Thus, the DNA analyzer 100 can achieve a precise temperature control along with rapid thermal cycles. In an example, the DNA analyzer 100 can achieve a temperature fluctuation of less than ±0.1° C., and a time of the thermal cycles for the PCR amplification can be less than 20 minutes.

The pressure module 130 receives control signals from the controller module 180, and applies suitable pressures to the microfluidic chip module 110 to enable fluid movement. In an embodiment, the pressure module 130 receives a sensing signal that is indicative of a pressure applied to the microfluidic chip module 110, and suitably adjusts its operation to maintain the suitable pressure to the microfluidic chip module 110.

The pressure module 130 can include a plurality of pumps. The plurality of pumps control the injection of the various reagents and the template DNA solutions into the microfluidic chip 111. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of pumps can be individually controlled to achieve any possible timing sequence.

The pressure module 130 may include other pressure components to suit the integrated single-chip integrated DNA analysis. In an embodiment, the microfluidic chip 111 has membrane valves. The pressure module 130 can include a hydrodynamic pressure/vacuum system to suitably control the closing and opening of the membrane valves to enable fluid movement through the microfluidic chip 111.

In another embodiment, the microfluidic chip 111 is valveless. For example, the DNA analyzer 100 uses a liquid phase DNA extraction instead of a silica solid phase DNA extraction. The liquid phase DNA extraction can be integrated with following DNA processes on a valveless microfluidic chip. Thus, the hydrodynamic pressure/vacuum system is not needed. The pressure module 130 can be simplified to reduce the footprint, the weight, the cost, and the complexity of the DNA analyzer 100.

The power module 160 receives a main power, and generates various operation powers for various components of the DNA analyzer 100. In an example, the DNA analyzer 100 is implemented using a modular design. Each module of the DNA analyzer 100 needs an operation power supply, which can be different from other modules. The power module 160 receives an AC power input, such as 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, single phase AC power from a power outlet. Then, the power module 160 generates 5 V, 12 V, 24 V, and the like, to provide operation powers for the various components of the DNA analyzer 100.

In addition, the power module 160 generates high voltages, such as 1000 V, 2000 V, and the like, for suitable DNA processes on the microfluidic chip 111, such as electro-kinetic injection, electrophoretic separation, and the like.

Further, the power module 160 can implement various protection techniques, such as power outrage protection, graceful shut-down, and the like, to protect the various components and data against power failure. It is noted that the power module 160 may include a back-up power, such as a battery module, to support, for example, graceful shut-down.

The high voltage module 140 can receive the high voltages from the power module 160 and suitably apply the high voltages on the microfluidic chip 111. For example, the high voltage module 140 includes interfaces that apply the high voltages to suitable electrodes on the microfluidic chip 111 to induce electro-kinetic injection and/or electrophoretic separation.

The detection module 150 includes components configured to suit the integrated single-chip DNA analysis. In an embodiment, the detection module 150 is configured for multicolor fluorescence detection. The detection module 150 includes a laser source unit, a set of optics and a detector unit.

The laser source unit emits a laser beam. In an example, the laser source unit includes an argon-ion laser unit. In another example, the laser source unit includes a solid state laser, such as a coherent sapphire optically pumped semiconductor laser unit. The solid state laser has the advantages of reduced size, weight and power consumption.

The set of optics can direct the laser beam to pass through the detection window at the second domain 111 b of the microfluidic chip 111. The laser beam can excite fluorescent labels attached to DNA fragments to emit fluorescence. Further, the set of optics can collect and direct the emitted fluorescence to the detector unit for detection. In an STR typing example, STR alleles are separated in the second domain 111 b according to sizes. STR alleles of different sizes pass the detection window at different times. In addition, STR alleles of overlapping sizes can be tagged with fluorescent labels of different colors. The detector unit can be configured to detect an STR allele having a fluorescent label based on a time of fluorescence emitted by the fluorescent label and a color of the emitted fluorescence.

In another example, internal lane standard (ILS) is added to migrate in the micro channel with the STR alleles. The ILS includes DNA fragments of known sizes, and can be tagged with a pre-determined fluorescent dye. The detector unit detects fluorescence emitted from the ILS to set up a size scale. In addition, the detector unit detects fluorescence emitted from the STR alleles. The detector unit can suitably convert the detected fluorescence into electrical signals. The electrical signals can be suitably stored and/or analyzed. In an example, a processor executes DNA analysis software instructions to identify the STR alleles by their sizes and emitted fluorescence colors (wavelengths).

The computing module 170 includes computing and communication units. In an example, the computing module 170 includes a personal computer. The personal computer can be coupled with the controller module 180 to provide a user interface. The user interface can inform the status of the DNA analyzer 100, and can receive user instructions for controlling the operation of the DNA analyzer 100. The personal computer includes various storage media to store software instruction and data. The personal computer can include DNA analysis software that can perform data processing based on raw data obtained from the detection module 150. In addition, the personal computer can be coupled to external processing units, such as a database, a server, and the like to further process the data obtained from the DNA analyzer 100.

The magnetic module 190 can enable a magnetic solid phase for the integrated single chip DNA analysis. In an embodiment, the magnetic solid phase can be suitably incorporated in the integrated single chip DNA analysis to facilitate a volume reduction to suit for low copy numbers of template DNAs. In another embodiment, the magnetic solid phase can be suitably incorporated into an integrated single chip sequencing DNA analysis.

The controller module 180 can receive status signals and feedback signals from the various components, and provide control signals to the various components according to a control procedure. In addition, the controller module 180 can provide the status signals to, for example, the personal computer, to inform the user. Further, the controller module 180 can receive user instructions from the personal computer, and may provide the control signals to the various components based on the user instructions.

During operation, the controller module 180 receives user instructions from the personal computer to perform a STR typing analysis, for example. The controller module 180 then monitors the microfluidic chip module 110 to check whether a suitable disposable cartridge has been installed, and whether swabs have been identified and suitably immersed in the liquid phase mixture to extract template DNA. When the controller module 180 confirms the proper status at the microfluidic chip module 110, the controller module 180 starts a control procedure corresponding to the STR typing analysis. In an example, the controller module 180 can control the thermal module 120 to maintain an appropriate temperature at the wells of the sample acceptor for a predetermined time. The liquid phase mixture in the wells can extract template DNAs from the swabs. Then, the controller module 180 can control the pressure module 130 to pump the extracted template DNAs into the first domain 111 a of the microfluidic chip 111. In addition, the controller module 180 can control the pressure module 130 to pump reagents for multiplexed STR amplification into the first domain 111 a.

Further, the controller module 180 can control the thermal module 120 to induce thermal cycling for the multiplexed STR amplification at the first domain 111 a. The reagents and the thermal cycling can cause DNA amplification. In addition, the DNA amplicons can be suitably tagged with fluorescent labels.

Subsequently, the controller module 180 can control the pressure module 130 to flow the DNA amplicons to the second domain 111 b. The controller module 180 may control the pressure module 130 to pump a dilution solution into the microfluidic chip 111 to mix with the DNA amplicons. In addition, the controller module 180 may control the pressure module 130 to pump an ILS into the microfluidic chip 111 to mix with the DNA amplicons.

Further, the controller module 180 controls the high voltage module 140 to induce electro-kinetic injection to inject DNA fragments into the micro channels. The DNA fragments include the amplified targets, and the ILS. Then, the controller module 180 controls the high voltage module 140 to induce electrophoretic separation in the micro channels. Additionally, the controller module 180 can control the thermal module 120 to maintain a suitable temperature at the second domain 111 b during separation, for example, to maintain the temperature for denaturing separation of the DNA fragments.

The controller module 180 then controls the detection module 150 to detect the labeled DNA fragments. The detection module 150 can emit and direct a laser beam to the micro channels to excite the fluorescent labels to emit fluorescence. Further, the detection module 150 can detect the emitted fluorescence and store detection data in a memory. The detection data can include a detection time, and a detected color (wavelength), along with a detected intensity, such as a relative magnitude of the detected fluorescence. The detection data can be transmitted to the personal computer for storage. Additionally, the controller module 180 can provide control statuses to the personal computer to inform the user. For example, the controller module 180 can send an analysis completed status to the personal computer when the control procedure is completed.

The DNA analyzer 100 can be suitably configured for various DNA analyses by suitably adjusting the reagents housed by the reagent carrier and the control procedure executed by the controller module 180.

FIG. 2A shows a swab storage example 212, and FIGS. 2B-2C show a side elevation view and a front elevation view of a sample cartridge example 215 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The swab storage 212 includes a case 203, a seal cap 202 and a swab 205. The seal cap 202 and the swab 205 are attached together. In addition, the swab storage 212 includes an identifier, such as a barcode label 204 that can be attached to the case 203, an RFID tag 201 that can be implanted in the seal cap 202, and the like.

Before taking DNA sample, the swab 205 is safely stored in the case 203 to avoid contamination. After taking DNA sample, the swab 205 can be placed in the sample cartridge 215.

The sample cartridge 215 can include a microfluidic chip 211, a sample acceptor 207 and a reagent carrier 206. The sample acceptor 207 includes a plurality of separated wells 207A-207D for taking swabs. Each well includes a liquid phase mixture 214 that is sealed by a membrane 208 at a bottom portion of the well. The liquid phase mixture 214 can conduct enzymatic digestion of all proteins and other cellular interferences, with the exception of DNA, and thus can perform DNA extraction and purification when a swab with DNA sample is inserted in the liquid phase mixture 214.

While the sample cartridge 215 is described in the context of swabs, it should be understood that the sample cartridge 215 can be suitably adjusted to suit other DNA gathering methods, such as blood stain cards, airborne samples, fingerprints samples, and the like.

In an embodiment, the seal cap 202 is a stepped seal cap that can seal the well in a first step, and a second step. When the seal cap 202 seals the well in the first step, the swab 205 does not puncture the membrane 208, and can be safely sealed in the well to maintain sample integrity. When the seal cap 202 seals the well in the second step, the swab 205 punctures the membrane 208 and is immersed in the liquid phase mixture 214.

The reagent carrier 206 houses various solutions for DNA analysis. In an STR typing example, the reagent carrier houses reagents for multiplexed STR amplification. In addition, the reagent carrier houses a coating solution, such as poly-N-hydroxyethylacrylamide, and the like. The coating solution can be used to coat micro channel walls prior to the separation. Further, the reagent carrier houses a dilution solution, such as water, formamide, and the like. The dilution solution can be used to reduce the ionic strength in order to promote better electro-kinetic injection. In an embodiment, the reagent carrier houses an internal lane standard (ILS). The ILS can be used for size measurement. The reagent carrier also houses a polymer solution for electrophoretic separation in the micro-scale chip environment.

During operation, for example, a new disposable cartridge 215 is taken from a storage package, and installed in a DNA analyzer, such as the DNA analyzer 100. Then, a swab 205 can be used to take a DNA sample. The swab 205 is then identified and inserted into one of the wells 207A-207D and sealed in the first step. Additional swabs 205 can be used to take DNA samples, and then identified and inserted into the un-used wells 207A-207D. Further, the DNA analyzer 100 can include a mechanism that can push the seal caps 202 to seal the wells 207A-207D in the second step, thus the swabs 205 can puncture the membrane 208, and immerse in the liquid phase mixture 214.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a microfluidic chip example 311 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The microfluidic chip 311 includes various micro structures, such as inlets 312-314, reaction reservoirs 315-316, channels 317 a-317 b, electrode reservoirs 318, outlets (not shown), and the like, that are integrated for single-chip DNA analysis. It is noted that the various micro structures can be designed and integrated to suit for various DNA analyses, such as STR typing, sequencing, and the like.

The inlets 312-314 can be coupled to a pressure module to inject solutions in the microfluidic chip 311. As described above, the connection can be made via a micro-macro interface. In an example, the inlet 312 is for injecting a template DNA solution from a well of the sample acceptor 207, and the inlet 313 is for injecting PCR reagents from the reagent carrier 206. In addition, the inlet 313 can be used for injecting dilution solution and ILS from the reagent carrier 206.

The reaction reservoirs 315-316 are configured for various purposes. In an example, the reaction reservoir 315 is configured for the PCR amplification, and the reaction reservoir 316 is configured for the post-PCR processes, such as dilution, and the like. More specifically, the reaction reservoir 315 is located in a first domain 311 a, which is a thermal control domain. The temperature within the thermal control domain 311 a can be precisely controlled. In an example, an infrared heating unit directs heat to the thermal control domain 311 a, a cooling fan disperses heat from the thermal control domain 311 a, and an infrared sensing unit measures a temperature in the thermal control domain 311 a. The infrared heating unit and the cooling fan can be controlled based on the temperature measured by the infrared sensing unit. The infrared heating unit, the cooling fan, and the infrared sensing unit can perform thermal control without contacting the thermal control domain 311 a.

In another example, the temperature in the thermal control domain 311 a is measured by a thermal coupling technique. More specifically, the microfluidic chip 311 includes a thermal-coupler reservoir 319 within the first domain 311 a. Thus, the solution temperature within the reaction reservoir 315 and the thermal-coupler reservoir 319 can be closely related. The solution temperature within the thermal-coupler reservoir 319 can be measured by any suitable technique. Based on the measured solution temperature within the thermal-coupler reservoir 319, the solution temperature within the reaction reservoir 315 can be determined. Then, the infrared heating unit and the cooling fan can be controlled based on the temperature measured by the thermal coupling technique in order to control the solution temperature in the reaction reservoir 315.

In an embodiment, after the PCR amplification, the PCR mixture is fluidically directed from the reaction reservoir 315 to a post-PCR clean-up/dilution domain, such as the reaction reservoir 316. In the reaction reservoir 316, the PCR mixture is diluted. In an example, the PCR mixture and a dilutant solution are mixed together according to a ratio from 1:5 to 1:20 (1 part of PCR mixture to 5-20 parts of dilutant). Further, ILS can be added in the reaction reservoir 316 to mix with the PCR mixture.

The channels 317 a-317 b are located in a second domain 311 b. Electric fields can be suitably applied onto the channels 317 a-317 b. In an example, the channels 317 a-317 b are configured according to a cross-T design, having a short channel 317 a and a long channel 317 b.

The electrode reservoirs 318 can be used to apply suitable electric fields over the short channel 317 a and the long channel 317 b. Thus, the short channel 317 a is configured for electro-kinetic injection, and the long channel 317 b is configured for electrophoretic separation. For example, when a high voltage is applied to the short channel 317 a, DNA fragments can be injected from the reaction reservoir 316 into the short channel 317 a at the intersection of the short channel 317 a and the long channel 317 b. The long channel 317 b can be filed with sieving matrix. When a high voltage is applied to the long channel 317 b, the injected DNA fragments can migrate in the long channel 317 b to the positive side of the electric field induced by the high voltage, in the presence of the sieving matrix. In an example, the length of the long channel 317 b is about 8.8 cm with detection at about 8 cm from the intersection.

It should be understood that the microfluidic chip 311 can include other structures to assist DNA analysis. In an example, the microfluidic chip 311 includes an alignment mark 321. The alignment mark 321 can assist a detection module to align to the long channel 317 b.

During operation, for example, the inlet 312 can input a template DNA into the reaction reservoir 315, and the inlet 313 can input PCR reagents into the reaction reservoir 315. Then, thermal-cycling can be induced at the first domain 311 a, and PCR amplification can be conducted in the reaction reservoir 315 to amplify DNA fragments based on the template DNA and the PCR reagents. After the PCR amplification, the DNA amplicons in the reaction reservoir 315 can be mobilized into the reaction reservoir 316 in a liquid flow. In the reaction reservoir 316, a dilution solution and ILS can be input to mix with the DNA fragments. Further, the DNA fragments in the reaction reservoir 316 can be injected across the short channel 317 a by electro-kinetic injection. The DNA fragments then migrate in the long channel 317 b under the force of electric field applied over the long channel 317 b. The speed of migration depends on the sizes of the DNA amplicons, in the presence of the sieving matrix. Thus, the DNA fragments are separated in the long channel 317 b according to their sizes.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary DNA analyzer 400 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The DNA analyzer 400 is packaged in a box. The box includes handles, wheels and the like, to facilitate transportation of the DNA analyzer 400. In an implementation, the total weight of the DNA analyzer 400 is less than 70 lb, and is appropriate for two persons to carry.

The DNA analyzer 400 is implemented in a modular manner. Each module can be individually packaged, and can include an interface for inter-module couplings. Thus, each module can be easily removed and replaced. The modular design can facilitate assembly, troubleshooting, repair, and the like.

The DNA analyzer 400 includes a user module (UM) 410, an active pressure module (APM) 430, a detection module 450, a power module (PM) 460, a computing module 470, and a controller module (CM) 480. In addition, the DNA analyzer 400 includes a sample cartridge storage 415 and a swab storage 412.

The UM 410 includes a holder to hold a sample cartridge, such as the sample cartridge 215, at an appropriate position when the sample cartridge is inserted by a user. Further, the UM 410 includes interface components to couple the sample cartridge 215 with, for example, the APM 430, the detection module 450, and the like. The UM 410 includes thermal components, such as resistance heaters 421, a cooling fan 422, an infrared heating unit 423, and the like. The thermal components can be suitably positioned corresponding to the sample cartridge 215. For example, a resistance heater 421 is situated at a position that can effectively control a temperature of the liquid phase mixture within the plurality of separated wells on the sample cartridge 215. The temperature can be determined to optimize enzyme activities of the liquid phase mixture to conduct enzymatic digestion of all proteins and other cellular interferences, with the exception of DNA. Another resistance heater 421 is at a position that can effectively control a temperature of the separation channel on the microfluidic chip 211. The infrared heating unit is at a position that can direct heat to the thermal control domain of the microfluidic chip 211 on the sample cartridge 215. The cooling fan is at a position that can effectively disperse heat from the thermal control domain. Further, the UM 410 includes a high voltage module that can apply suitable high voltages via the electrode reservoirs of the microfluidic chip 211.

It is noted that the UM 410 can include other suitable components. In an embodiment, the UM 410 includes a magnetic module that can suitably apply magnetic control over a domain of the microfluidic chip 211.

The APM 430 includes suitably components, such as pumps, vacuums, and the like, to apply suitable pressures to the microfluidic chip 211 to enable fluid movement.

The PM 460 receives an input main power, and generates various operation powers, such as 6 V, 12 V, 24 V, 1000V, 2000V, and the like, for various components of the DNA analyzer 400.

The detection module 450 can include a laser module (LM) 451, a passive optics module (POM) 452, and an active optics module (AOM) 453. The LM 451 can include any suitable device to emit a laser beam. In an embodiment, the LM 451 includes an argon-ion laser. In another example, the LM 451 includes a diode laser. In another embodiment, the LM 451 includes a solid state laser, such as a coherent sapphire optically pumped semiconductor laser. The solid state laser can have a reduced size and weight, and can consume less power than the argon-ion laser. In addition, the solid state laser generates less waste heat, such that fan size can be reduced to reduce footprint of the DNA analyzer 400.

The AOM 453 includes optical elements that may need to be adjusted with regard to each inserted microfluidic chip. In an example, the AOM 453 includes a plurality of optical fibers that are respectively coupled to a plurality of separation channels on the microfluidic chip. The plurality of optical fibers can respectively provide laser beams to the plurality of separation channels to excite fluorescence emission. In addition, the plurality of optical fibers can return the emitted fluorescence from the plurality of separation channels.

The POM 452 includes various optical elements, such as lens, splitters, photo-detectors, and the like, that do not need to be adjusted with regard to each inserted microfluidic chip. In an example, the POM 452 is calibrated and adjusted with regard to the LM 451 and the AOM 453 when the detection module 450 is assembled. Then, the optical elements within the POM 452 are situated at relatively fixed positions, and do not need to be adjusted with regard to each inserted microfluidic chip.

The controller module 480 is coupled to the various components of the DNA analyzer 400 to provide control signals for DNA analysis. The controller module 480 includes a control procedure that determines sequences and timings of the control signals.

The computing module 470 is implemented as a personal computer. The personal computer includes a processor, a memory storing suitable software, a keyboard, a display, and a communication interface. The computing module 470 can provide a user interface to ease user control and monitor of the DNA analysis by the DNA analyzer 400.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a multiple-sample microfluidic chip example 500 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500 can be used to simultaneously perform DNA analysis for multiple samples. Similar to the microfluidic chip 311 in FIG. 3, the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500 includes various micro structures, such as inlets 521-524, reaction reservoirs 552, 562 and 572, connection channels 551,561, 571, 581, 553, 563 and 573, injection channels 554, 564, 574 and 584, separation channels 555, 565, 575 and 585, electrode reservoirs 531-540, waste reservoirs 524 and 525, and the like. These micro structures can be similarly configured as their corresponding micro structures in FIG. 3 and can operate similarly as their corresponding micro structures in FIG. 3.

In addition, similar to the microfluidic chip 311, the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500 includes a first domain 511 a, and a second domain 511 b. The first domain 511 a is a thermal control domain, and the temperature within the first domain 511 a can be controlled in a similar manner as the thermal control domain 311 a.

The first domain 511 a can include multiple reaction reservoirs that are respectively designated to multiple samples to perform simultaneous PCR amplification for the multiple samples. In the FIG. 5 example, the reaction reservoirs 552, 562 and 572 are located within the first domain 511 a. During a PCR amplification step, for example, the reaction reservoir 552 includes a first liquid mixture of a first template DNA extracted from a first sample and first reagents, the reaction reservoir 562 includes a second liquid mixture of a second template DNA extracted from a second sample and second reagents, and the reaction reservoir 572 includes a third liquid mixture of a third template DNA extracted from a third sample and third reagents. Then, when thermal cycles are generated within the first domain 511 a, for example, by an infrared light source and a cooling fan, PCR amplifications can be simultaneously performed in the reaction reservoirs 552, 562 and 572.

In an embodiment, the first domain 511 a includes a thermal coupler reservoir (not shown) for measuring a temperature within the first domain 511 a. In another embodiment, the temperature measurement is performed by an infrared sensing unit.

The second domain 511 b includes multiple separation units that are respectively designated to multiple samples. In an embodiment, each separation unit includes a separation channel and an injection channel coupled together. In addition, the separation unit includes electrode reservoirs that are in association with the injection channel and the separation channel to provide electric fields for electro-kinetic injection and electrophoretic separation. It is noted that separation units may share electrode reservoirs. In the FIG. 5 example, the second domain 511 b includes four separation units. The first separation unit includes the injection channel 554 and the separation channel 555. The second separation unit includes the injection channel 564 and the separation channel 565. The third separation unit includes the injection channel 574 and the separation channel 575. The fourth separation unit includes the injection channel 584 and the separation channel 585.

It is noted that the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500 can include other domains, such as post-PCR clean-up/dilution domain, and the like. Alternatively, a domain can be configured to be a multi-purpose domain. For example, the first domain 511 a can be suitably configured for purification and/or post-PCR processing. Thus, the reaction reservoirs 552, 562 and 572 can also be purification reservoirs and/or post-PCR reservoirs.

In another example, the electrode reservoirs 531, 533 and 536 are suitably configured for diluting PCR mixtures. Specifically, the electrode reservoir 531 dilutes a first PCR mixture received from the reaction reservoir 552 with a first dilutant, and prepares the first PCR mixture for electrophoretic separation in the separation channel 555. The electrode reservoir 533 dilutes a second PCR mixture received from the reaction reservoir 562 with a second dilutant, and prepares the second PCR mixture for electrophoretic separation in the separation channel 565. The electrode reservoir 536 dilutes a third PCR mixture received from the reaction reservoir 572 with a third dilutant, and prepares the third PCR mixture for electrophoretic separation in the separation channel 575. In an embodiment, respective dilution ratios are used in the electrode reservoirs 531, 533 and 536. The dilution ratios are from 1:5 to 1:20 (one part of PCR mixture to 5-20 parts of dilutant).

The various micro structures can be suitably coupled together to form multiple processing units for multiple-sample DNA analysis. In FIG. 5 example, the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500 includes four processing units. The first processing unit includes the inlets 521, the connection channel 551, the reaction reservoir 552, the connection channel 553, the injection channel 554, and the separation channel 555. The second processing unit includes the inlets 522, the connection channel 561, the reaction reservoir 562, the connection channel 563, the injection channel 564, and the separation channel 565. The third processing unit includes the inlets 523, the connection channel 571, the reaction reservoir 572, the connection channel 573, the injection channel 574, and the separation channel 575. The fourth processing unit includes the inlet 524, the connection channel 581, the injection channel 584, and the separation channel 585.

The micro structures of a processing unit can be fluidically coupled together to enable liquid flow. Using the first processing unit as an example, the inlets 521 are suitably coupled to a pump module. The pump module can input the first template DNA and the first reagents into the reaction reservoir 552 via the connection channel 551 by a pressure force. In the reaction reservoir 552, PCR amplification is performed based on the first template DNA and the first reagents. After the PCR amplification, the DNA amplicons flow through the connection channel 553 by a pressure force. Further, the DNA amplicons are injected into the separation channel 555 via the injection channel 554 by an electro-kinetic force. Then, electrophoretic separation can be performed in the separation channel 555.

The multiple processing units can be configured to fluidically separated from each other on the same multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500. Thus, the multiple processing units can be respectively used to perform DNA analysis for multiple samples using a single microfluidic chip.

It is noted that the processing units can be suitably configured to include branches. The branches can be suitably enabled or disabled. Using the first processing unit in FIG. 5 as an example, in addition to the connection channel 553, the reaction reservoir 552 is also coupled to a connection channel 556 directing to the waste reservoir 524. In an embodiment, the connection channel 553 has a higher resistance than the connection channel 556, for example, by having a smaller cross-section area than the connection channel 556. However, the connection channel 556 includes a valve 557. When the valve 557 is closed, the connection channel 556 is closed, then liquid can be forced to the higher resistance connection channel 553. When the valve 557 is open, liquid can flow through the connection channel 556 to the waste reservoir 524.

It is also noted that the four processing units can be configured in a same manner or can be configured in different manners. In the FIG. 5 example, the first, second and third processing units are configured in a same manner, and the fourth processing unit is configured differently from the other processing units. For example, each of the first, second and third processing units includes a reaction reservoir in the first domain 511 a. In addition, corresponding connection channels, such as the connection channels 553, 563 and 573, are suitably routed, such as zigzagged, to have substantially the same length. Thus, the first, second and third processing units can be used to perform DNA analysis for three samples simultaneously. The fourth processing unit does not include a reaction reservoir in the first domain 511 a. Thus, the fourth processing unit can be used to perform DNA analysis for a sample that does not need PCR amplification, or the PCR amplification for the sample is suitably performed previously.

It is also noted that a multiple-sample microfluidic chip can include multiple first domains, and/or second domains. In an example, a multiple-sample microfluidic chip may suitably include four sets of the schematic diagram in FIG. 5. Then, the multiple-sample microfluidic chip can be used to simultaneously perform DNA analysis for twelve samples, or can be used to simultaneously perform electrophoretic separation for sixteen samples.

Of course, a multiple-sample microfluidic chip can be configured to repeat the structure in a single sample microfluidic chip, such as the microfluidic chip 311. The repeated structures may be coupled together, or may be independent of each other. In an example, two structures are thermally coupled together. For example, the PCR reaction reservoirs of the two structures are thermally coupled together. In another example, two structures are fluidically coupled together. For example, the two structures share a same inlet. In another example, the repeated structures are independent of each other. For example, the PCR reaction reservoirs of the repeated structures are thermally isolated, thus thermal cycles can be independently induced for the PCR reaction reservoirs.

Accordingly, a DNA analyzer can be suitably configured for multiple-sample DNA analysis. For example, a thermal module of the DNA analyzer has a capability to generate thermal cycles within multiple first domains on a multiple-sample microfluidic chip, and the thermal module can be suitably configured to suit a multiple-sample microfluidic chip in use. In an embodiment, a thermal module of the DNA analyzer includes a halogen light bulb to direct heat to a first domain, such as the first domain 511 a, including multiple thermally coupled reaction reservoirs for PCR amplification. In another embodiment, a thermal module of the DNA analyzer includes multiple heat sources that can independently direct heat to thermally isolated reaction reservoirs. In another example, a detection module of the DNA analyzer has a capability to detect fluorescence from sixteen separation channels. The detection module can be suitably configured to suit a multiple-sample microfluidic chip in use.

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of a detection module example 650 coupled with a multiple-sample microfluidic chip example 611 for multiple-sample DNA analysis according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The multiple-sample microfluidic chip 611 is similarly configured as the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 511 to include four separation channels. During an operation, for example, the four separation channels are used to simultaneously perform electrophoretic separation for four samples. The detection module 650 has a capability of detecting fluorescence from sixteen separation channels, and can be suitably configured according to the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 611 in use.

The detection module 650 includes a laser module 651, a passive optics module 652 and an active optics module 653. These elements can be coupled together as shown in FIG. 6. In an embodiment, the detection module 650 is implemented according to modular design. Each of the laser module 651, the passive optics module 652 and the active optics module 653 can be individually handled, such as manufactured, purchased, tested, and calibrated. Further, the laser module 651, the passive optics module 652 and the active optics module 653 can be suitably coupled together, and assembled in a DNA analyzer.

In an example, these modules can be coupled together by optical fibers. The laser module 651 generates a laser beam. The laser beam is provided to the passive optics module 652 via an optical fiber 671. The passive optics module 652 has a capability to split the laser beam into sixteen laser beams. The sixteen laser beams are provided to the active optics module 653 via sixteen optical fibers 673. The active optics module 653 has a capability to respectively focus the sixteen laser beams onto sixteen separation channels, respectively collect fluorescence from the sixteen separation channels and return the collected fluorescence to the passive optics module 652 via the sixteen optical fibers 673. The passive optics module 652 can include detectors to convert optical signals, such as the returned fluorescence, into electrical signals. The electrical signals can then be suitably stored and processed.

More specifically, the laser module 651 can include any suitably laser device, such as an argon-ion laser device, a solid state laser, and the like, to generate the laser beam. In an example, the laser module 651 includes a coherent sapphire optically pumped semiconductor laser (OPSL) outputs a laser beam of 488 nm wavelength, and has an output power of 200 mW.

The passive optics module 652 can use any suitable techniques to split the received laser beam into the sixteen laser beams. In the FIG. 6 example, the passive optics module 652 splits the laser beam by two stages. In a first stage, the passive optics module 652 uses a splitter 661 to split the laser beam into four sub-laser beams. In a second stage, the passive optics module 652 uses four splitter/MUX units 662 to respectively split the four sub-laser beams into the sixteen laser beams. The sixteen laser beams are feed to the active optics module 653 by the sixteen optical fibers 673.

The active optics module 653 includes sixteen focus units 654, such as objective lenses, that can respectively focus the sixteen laser beams to sixteen separation channels. In addition, each objective lens can collect and return fluorescence excited by the laser beam. The active optics module 653 can include a motor, such as a micro-piezo stepper motor, that can be coupled to the focus units 654 to align the focus units 654 to separation channels.

In the FIG. 6 example, when the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 611 uses four separation channels during operation, the active optics module 653 selectively align four of the focus units 654 to the four separation channels. The other focus units 654 may be suitably disabled.

The returned fluorescence can be transmitted to the passive optics module 652 via the sixteen optical fibers 673. The passive optics module 652 can include one or more detectors to detect properties, such as wavelength, intensity, timings, and the like, of the excited fluorescence from the sixteen separation channels.

In the FIG. 6 example, the passive optics module 652 uses the four splitter/MUX units 662 to multiplex the optical signals from the sixteen optical fibers 673 into four multiplexed optical signals 675. Further, the passive optics module 652 uses four signal processing units to respectively process the four multiplexed optical signal 675. In an example, each signal processing unit includes a filter 663, such as acousto optic tunable filter (AOTF), and a photo-detector 664, such as avalanche photo detector (APD), coupled together. The filter 663 filters the optical signal 675 based on wavelengths. More specifically, the filter 663 passes a portion of the optical signal 675 having a tunable wavelength, and blocks the rest of the optical signal 675. Then, the photo-detector 663 generates an electrical signal in response to the filtered optical signal. The electrical signal can be suitably processed, such as spectrally separated, phase-demodulated, digitalized, and stored. In the FIG. 6 example, the passive optics module 652 includes a data connector interface 665 to transmit the digitalized data to another module, such as a computer module, for post-processing.

FIG. 7 shows a flow chart outlining an exemplary process for using a DNA analyzer, such as the DNA analyzer 400, to perform multiple-sample DNA analysis according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The process starts at S701, and proceeds to S710.

At S710, a user of the DNA analyzer 400 plugs in a main power supply. In an embodiment, the main power supply can be a 110 V, 50 Hz, AC power supply, or can be a 220V, 60 Hz, AC power supply. The power module 460 can convert the main power supply to a plurality of operation powers, and provide the plurality of operation powers to the various modules of the DNA analyzer 400. Then, the process proceeds to S715.

At S715, the user starts up a user control interface. For example, the user turns on the personal computer 470, and starts a software package that interacts with the user and the controller module 480. The software package enables the personal computer 470 to provide a user control interface on the display. Further, the software package enables the personal computer 470 to receive user instructions via keyboard or mouse. The software packages can also enable the personal computer 470 to communicate with the controller module 480. Then, the process proceeds to S720.

At S720, the user instructs the DNA analyzer 400 to initialize. The user control interface receives the initialization instruction, and the software package enables the personal computer 470 to send the initialization instruction to the controller module 480. The controller module 480 can then initialize the various components of the DNA analyzer 400. The controller module 480 can power on the various components, check the status and reset the status if needed. Then, the process proceeds to S725.

At S725, the user inserts a sample cartridge, such as the sample cartridge 215, in the UM 410. The sample cartridge 215 includes a multiple-sample microfluidic chip, such as the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500. In addition, the sample cartridge 215 includes a sample acceptor having multiple wells to respectively accept multiple samples. The sample cartridge 215 can be positioned by a holder. The interface components can suitably couple the sample cartridge 215 to the other components of the DNA analyzer 400. Then, the process proceeds to S730.

At S730, the user takes a swab 205, and lets the DNA analyzer 400 to identify the swab 205. In an example, the DNA analyzer 400 includes a barcode reader that can read the barcode label 204 attached to the case 203 for storing the swab 205. In another example, the DNA analyzer 400 excites the RFID 201 implanted in the seal cap 202 of the swab 205 to obtain a unique serial number of the swab 205. Then, the process proceeds to S735.

At S735, the user uses the swab 205 to take a DNA sample and inserts the swab 205 into a well of the sample cartridge 215. Then, the process proceeds to S736.

At S736, the user determines whether to insert more samples. When the sample cartridge can take more samples and more samples are available, the process returns to S730 for the user to insert more samples in the sample cartridge 215. When the sample cartridge is full or no more sample is available, the process proceeds to S740.

At S740, the user instructs the DNA analyzer 400 to start a DNA analysis. The user control interface receives the start instruction, and the software package enables the personal computer 470 to send the start instruction to the controller module 480. The controller module 480 can start a control procedure corresponding to the DNA analysis. In an example, the controller module 480 starts an STR typing procedure corresponding to a multiplexed STR typing analysis. In another example, the controller module 480 starts a sequencing procedure corresponding to DNA sequencing analysis. In an embodiment, the control procedure starts with an alignment instruction. The alignment instruction can be sent to suitable components to align the components to suit for multiple-sample DNA analysis. For example, the alignment instruction is sent to a detection module, such as the detection module 650. The detection module 650 is then suitably initialized according to, for example, the configuration of the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500, a number of samples being inserted, and the like. Then, the process proceeds to S745.

At S745, the user waits and monitors the status of the DNA analysis. The control procedure can specify sequences and timings of control signals to various components of the DNA analyzer 400 corresponding to the multiple-sample DNA analysis. Then, the controller module 480 automatically sends the control signals according to the sequences and the timings in the control procedure. In addition, the controller module 480 receives status and feedback signals from the various components, and sends them to the personal computer 470. The personal computer 470 then provides the analysis status for the user to monitor. Then, the process proceeds to S750.

At S750, the controller module 480 finishes executing the control procedure, and sends an analysis-completed status to the personal computer 470. The personal computer 470 can inform the user of the analysis-completed status via the user control interface. Then, the process proceeds to S755.

At S755, the user performs post data processing. The user can store the raw data of the DNA analysis, or transmit the raw data to a remote receiver. In addition, the user may start a software package for post data processing. Alternatively, the software package for post data processing can be suitably integrated with the control procedure. Thus, after the control procedure is successfully executed, the software package for post data processing is executed automatically to perform post data processing. The process then proceeds to S799 and terminates.

It is noted that to perform another DNA analysis, the user may throw away the sample cartridge and repeat S720-S750. It is also noted that the sequence of the DNA analysis steps can be suitably adjusted. For example, S735 and S730 can be swapped, thus a swab can be first used to take a DNA sample, and then identified by the DNA analyzer 400.

FIG. 8 shows a flow chart outlining an exemplary process for a DNA analyzer to perform a multiple-sample DNA analysis according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The DNA analyzer includes a multiple-sample microfluidic chip, such as the multiple-sample microfluidic chip 500. The multiple-sample microfluidic chip includes multiple processing units for processing multiple samples respectively. Each processing unit includes its respective inlets, connection channels, a reaction reservoir in a thermal control domain, an injection channel and a separation channel coupled together. The process starts at S801 and proceeds to S805.

At S805, the controller module 480 sends alignment instructions to modules in the DNA analyzer to align in response to inserted multiple samples. In an example, three samples are inserted in a sample acceptor for simultaneous DNA analysis. The controller module 480 determines three processing units for the simultaneous DNA analysis. In addition, the controller 480 sends the alignment instructions to, for example, the APM 430 to align pumps to inlets of the three processing units, the UM 410 to align high voltage sources to electro reservoirs of the three processing units, and the detection module 450 to align objective lenses to separation channels of the three processing units. Then, the process proceeds to S810.

At S810, the controller module 480 controls the resistance heater 421 to maintain a temperature for extraction and purification of template DNA from the multiple samples. In an example, the resistance heater 421 is positioned corresponding to multiple wells on the sample cartridge 215. The multiple wells accept multiple DNA samples, such as multiple swabs 205 used to take DNA sample. In an example, the multiple swabs 205 are forced to respectively puncture membranes that seal a liquid phase mixture at the bottom of the their respective wells, thus the multiple swabs 205 are respectively immersed into the liquid phase mixture. The liquid phase mixture can extract and purify template DNA from the swab at the temperature according to enzymatic DNA isolation method. In an embodiment, the liquid phase mixture can achieve a compatible DNA concentration and purity to silica based solid phase extraction method in about 6 minutes. Thus, multiple template DNAs can be extracted and purified simultaneously. Then, the process proceeds to S820.

At S820, the controller module 480 controls the APM 430 to pump each extracted template DNA and reagents into a processing unit on the multiple-sample microfluidic chip. In an STR typing example, the reagent carrier 206 houses reagents for multiplexed STR amplification. The controller module 480 sends control signals to the APM 430. In response to the control signals, a pump module respectively pumps the multiple extracted template DNAs from the multiple wells into the multiple reaction reservoirs in the thermal control domain, and also pumps the reagents from the reagent carrier 206 into the multiple reaction reservoirs. Then, the process proceeds to S830.

At S830, the controller module 480 controls the cooling fan 422 and the infrared heating unit 423 to induce thermal cycling in the thermal control domain for the multiplexed STR amplification. In addition, the reagents can attach fluorescent labels to DNA during the STR amplification process. The process then proceeds to S840.

At S840, after the PCR amplification, the solution can be diluted. In an embodiment, the controller module 480 sends control signals to the APM 430 after the PCR amplification. In response to the control signals, the APM 430 respectively pumps a dilution solution into the multiple reaction reservoirs. The process then proceeds to S850.

At S850, the controller module 480 sends control signals to the high voltage module in the UM 410 to respectively inject the DNA amplicons across the injection channels to the respectively separation channels. Then, the process proceeds to S860.

At S860, the controller module 480 sends control signals to the high voltage module in the UM 410 to apply appropriate high voltage over the multiple separation channels of the multiple processing units to separate the DNA amplicons based on size. The process then proceeds to S870.

At S870, the controller module 480 sends control signals to the detection module 450 to excite and detect emitted fluorescence from the multiple separation channels. The raw detection data can be sent to the personal computer 470 for storage and post-processing. The process then proceeds to S899, and terminates.

It is noted that some process steps in the process 800 can be executed in parallel. For example, the step S860 and the step S870 can be executed in parallel. The controller module 480 sends control signals to both the high voltage module in the UM 410 and the detection module 450 at about the same time. The control signals to the high voltage module in the UM 410 cause the electrophoretic separation in the separation channel, while the control signals to the detection module 450 cause fluorescence detection.

While the invention has been described in conjunction with the specific exemplary embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, exemplary embodiments of the invention as set forth herein are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. There are changes that may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

1. A microfluidic chip, comprising: a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, the first domain including at least a first reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a first sample, and a second reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a second sample; and a second domain including at least a first separation unit coupled to the first reaction reservoir to received first amplified DNA fragments based on the first sample, and a second separation unit coupled to the second reaction reservoir to received second amplified DNA fragments based on the second sample, the first separation unit being configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the first amplified DNA fragments, and the second separation unit being configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the second amplified DNA fragments.
 2. The microfluidic chip of claim 1, further comprising: first inlets configured to input a first template DNA extracted from the first sample and first reagents for PCR amplification into the first reaction reservoir; and second inlets configured to input a second template DNA extracted from the second sample and second reagents for PCR amplification into the second reaction reservoir.
 3. The microfluidic chip of claim 1, wherein the first separation unit further comprises: a first separation channel configured to separate the first amplified DNA fragments by electrophoretic separation; and a first injection channel configured to inject the first amplified DNA fragments into the first separation channel by electro-kinetic injection; and the second separation unit further comprises: a second separation channel configured to separate the second amplified DNA fragments by electrophoretic separation; and a second injection channel configured to inject the second amplified DNA fragments into the second separation channel by electro-kinetic injection.
 4. The microfluidic chip of claim 1, wherein the first separation unit further comprises: first electrode reservoirs configured to apply electric fields for the electro-kinetic injection and the electrophoretic separation; and the second separation unit further comprises: second electrode reservoirs configured to apply electric fields for the electro-kinetic injection and the electrophoretic separation.
 5. The microfluidic chip of claim 4, wherein the first separation unit and the second separation unit share at least one electrode reservoir.
 6. The microfluidic chip of claim 1, wherein the first domain further comprises: a thermal coupler reservoir configured for measuring a temperature within the first domain.
 7. The microfluidic chip of claim 1, further comprising: a dilution domain configured to dilute PCR mixtures received from the first domain and prepare the PCR mixtures for electrophoretic separations in the second domain, the dilution domain including a first dilution reservoir designated for diluting a first PCR mixture received from the first reaction reservoir, and a second dilution reservoir designated for diluting a second PCR mixture received from the second reaction reservoir.
 8. The microfluidic chip of claim 7, wherein the first dilution reservoir dilutes the first PCR mixture with a first dilutant according to a first ratio from 1:5 to 1:20, and the second dilution reservoir dilutes the second PCR mixture with a second dilutant according to a second ratio from 1:5 to 1:20.
 9. A DNA analyzer that is configured to receive and act on the microfluidic chip of claim 1 to perform DNA analysis.
 10. A cartridge, comprising: a sample acceptor configured to respectively extract a first template DNA from a first sample and a second template DNA from a second sample; and a microfluidic chip having a first domain configured for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA fragments, the first domain including at least a first reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on the first template DNA, and a second reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on the second template DNA; and a second domain including at least a first separation unit coupled to the first reaction reservoir to received first amplified DNA fragments based on the first template DNA, and a second separation unit coupled to the second reaction reservoir to received second amplified DNA fragments based on the second template DNA, the first separation unit being configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the first amplified DNA fragments, and the second separation unit being configured to perform electrophoretic separation for the second amplified DNA fragments.
 11. The cartridge of claim 10, further comprising: a reagent carrier configured to carry reagents for the PCR amplification, and solutions for the electrophoretic separation.
 12. The cartridge of claim 10, wherein the sample acceptor is configured to extract the first template DNA or the second template DNA by at least one of a solid phase extraction, and a liquid phase enzymatic DNA isolation.
 13. The cartridge of claim 10, wherein the sample acceptor comprises a first well having a first liquid phase mixture to extract the first template DNA from the first sample and a second well having a second liquid phase mixture to extract the second template DNA from the second sample.
 14. The cartridge of claim 11, wherein the microfluidic chip further comprises: first inlets configured to input the first template DNA and first reagents for PCR amplification into the first reaction reservoir; and second inlets configured to input the second template DNA and second reagents for PCR amplification into the second reaction reservoir.
 15. The cartridge of claim 11, wherein the first separation unit of the microfluidic chip further comprises: a first separation channel configured to separate the first amplified DNA fragments by electrophoretic separation; and a first injection channel used for injecting the first amplified DNA fragments into the first separation channel by electro-kinetic injection; and the second separation unit of the microfluidic chip further comprises: a second separation channel configured to separate the second amplified DNA fragments of the second sample by electrophoretic separation; and a second injection channel used for injecting the second amplified DNA fragments into the second separation channel by electro-kinetic injection.
 16. The cartridge of claim 15, wherein the first separation unit further comprises: first electrode reservoirs configured to apply electric fields for the electro-kinetic injection and the electrophoretic separation; and the second separation unit further comprises: second electrode reservoirs configured to apply electric fields for the electro-kinetic injection and the electrophoretic separation.
 17. The cartridge of claim 16, wherein the first separation unit and the second separation unit share at least one electrode reservoir.
 18. The cartridge of claim 10, wherein the microfluidic chip further comprises: a dilution domain configured to dilute PCR mixtures received from the first domain and prepare the PCR mixtures for electrophoretic separations in the second domain, the dilution domain including a first dilution reservoir designated for diluting a first PCR mixture received from the first reaction reservoir, and a second dilution reservoir designated for diluting a second PCR mixture received from the second reaction reservoir.
 19. The cartridge of claim 10, wherein the first dilution reservoir dilutes the first PCR mixture with a first dilutant according to a first ratio from 1:5 to 1:20, and the second dilution reservoir dilutes the second PCR mixture with a second dilutant according to a second ratio from 1:5 to 1:20.
 20. A method for multiple-sample DNA analysis, comprising: inducing thermal cycles in a first domain of a microfluidic chip for PCR amplification of DNA fragments, the first domain including at least a first reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a first sample, and a second reaction reservoir designated for PCR amplification based on a second sample; inducing liquid flow to respectively move first amplified DNA fragments from the first reaction reservoir to a first separation unit in a second domain of the microfluidic chip, and second amplified DNA fragments from the second reaction reservoir to a second separation unit in the second domain of the microfluidic chip; inducing electric fields in the first separation unit to separate the first amplified DNA fragments by size; inducing electric fields in the second separation unit to separate the second amplified DNA fragments by size; and detecting the separated DNA fragments.
 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising: extracting a first template DNA from the first sample; and extracting a second template DNA from the second sample.
 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising: maintaining a temperature to enable liquid phase enzymatic DNA isolation for extracting at least one of the first template DNA and the second template DNA.
 23. The method of claim 21, further comprising: injecting first reagents and the first template DNA into the first reaction reservoir; and injecting second reagents and the second template DNA into the second reaction reservoir.
 24. The method of claim 20, wherein detecting the separated DNA fragments further comprises: emitting a laser beam; splitting the laser beam into a first laser beam and a second laser beam; directing the first laser beam to a first separation channel of the first separation unit to excite a first fluorescence from first fluorescent labels attached to the first amplified DNA fragments; directing the second laser beam to a second separation channel of the second separation unit to excite a second fluorescence from second fluorescent labels attached to the second amplified DNA fragments; and detecting the first fluorescence and the second fluorescence.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein detecting the first fluorescence and the second fluorescence comprises: detecting the first fluorescence by a first detector; and detecting the second fluorescence by a second detector.
 26. The method of claim 24, wherein detecting the first fluorescence and the second fluorescence comprises: multiplexing the first fluorescence and the second fluorescence; and detecting the multiplexed fluorescence by a detector.
 27. The method of claim 20, wherein inducing liquid flow to respectively move the first amplified DNA fragments from the first reaction reservoir to the first separation unit in the second domain of the microfluidic chip, and the second amplified DNA fragments from the second reaction reservoir to the second separation unit in the second domain of the microfluidic chip, further comprises: inducing liquid flow to move a first PCR mixture having the first amplified DNA fragments from the first reaction reservoir to a first dilution reservoir; diluting the first PCR mixture with a first dilutant; inducing liquid flow to move a second PCR mixture having the second amplified DNA fragments from the second reaction reservoir to a second dilution reservoir; and diluting the second PCR mixture with a second dilutant.
 28. The method of claim 27, wherein diluting the first PCR mixture with the first dilutant and diluting the second PCR mixture with the second dilutant, further comprises: diluting the first PCR mixture with the first dilutant according to a first ratio from 1:5 to 1:20; and diluting the second PCR mixture with the second dilutant according to a second ratio from 1:5 to 1:20. 